On July 25, the Sippican Historical Society will present “American History as Seen from a Paris Dinner Party.” Marion resident Kirtland C. Mead is an international management consultant, researcher, and executive educator who has spent nearly 40 years living abroad. During this period of American hegemony, many of the Europeans whom Mead encountered couldn’t understand how the United States attained its top status when so many of the Americans they encountered seemed unimpressive.

At 7 p.m., Dr. Mead will present the European view on the American history, as he experienced it in the social context of a dinner party. When casual conversation turned to culture clash, several questions emerged: Was the U.S. really special, as Americans often maintained, or was its superpower status the result of a very fortunate history, as the Europeans believe?

Dr. Mead’s lecture will be held at the Marion Music Hall, located at 164 Front St. The presentation will be offered free of charge, though donations are accepted. No reservations are necessary. For more information, please call the society at 508-748-1116.